Beauty and the Billionaire (Billionaire Boys Club series Book 2)
ByJessica Clare
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Readers` Reviews
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
peter pier
4.25 stars--BEAUTY AND THE BILLIONAIRE is the second instalment in Jessica Clare’s adult, contemporary Billionaire Boys Club romance series focusing on six billionaire friends who have vowed success at any cost. This is real-estate tycoon Hunter Buchanan and ghost writer Gretchen Petty’s story-one with a Beauty and the Beast fairy tale premise. Many of Jessica Clare’s Billionaire Boys Club storylines have a definite fairytale or Shakespearean quality.
The focus of the storyline finds reluctant ghost writer Gretchen Petty short on funds and bemoaning her latest story. When an offer from a new publishing firm comes through, Gretchen is curious as to why they want her. Enter reclusive billionaire Hunter Buchanan-a dark and lonely man-whose need for Gretchen sets into motion a relationship that is destined to fail. For all of his success and money, Hunter is a man whose personal life has been damaged by mistrust and betrayal, and a self esteem that has been destroyed by the physical scars upon his face and hand.
Hunter’s attraction to Gretchen was first established in book one STRANDED WITH A BILLIONAIRE when Hunter notices the beautiful red head-from afar. His desire for Gretchen is tempered by his tormented past-a past that has left him disfigured and hiding in the shadows where very few people go. But Gretchen sees something behind the scars-a frightened and lonely man who desires to be loved and accepted for who he is; not what he looks like or the size of his wallet. Hunter is definitely not an alpha male but a man whose personality has been shaped by his scars. The sex scenes are seductive, intimate and revealing; the foreplay and build up finds our couple exploring different opportunities.
The secondary characters include Gretchen’s sisters, her manager and a few friends, as well as some of Hunter’s fellow Billionaire Boys club members. We get a crash course on how NOT to be a butler that allows for a few humorous moments as Gretchen’s sarcastic side makes an appearance.
BEAUTY AND THE BILLIONAIRE is an emotional and passionate storyline of acceptance and love. There is romance and sex; betrayal and heartbreak when the lines of communication become bogged down in hearsay and innuendo. A case of mistaken belief pulls our couple apart but not before words are spoken in anger and emotions control the heart.
The focus of the storyline finds reluctant ghost writer Gretchen Petty short on funds and bemoaning her latest story. When an offer from a new publishing firm comes through, Gretchen is curious as to why they want her. Enter reclusive billionaire Hunter Buchanan-a dark and lonely man-whose need for Gretchen sets into motion a relationship that is destined to fail. For all of his success and money, Hunter is a man whose personal life has been damaged by mistrust and betrayal, and a self esteem that has been destroyed by the physical scars upon his face and hand.
Hunter’s attraction to Gretchen was first established in book one STRANDED WITH A BILLIONAIRE when Hunter notices the beautiful red head-from afar. His desire for Gretchen is tempered by his tormented past-a past that has left him disfigured and hiding in the shadows where very few people go. But Gretchen sees something behind the scars-a frightened and lonely man who desires to be loved and accepted for who he is; not what he looks like or the size of his wallet. Hunter is definitely not an alpha male but a man whose personality has been shaped by his scars. The sex scenes are seductive, intimate and revealing; the foreplay and build up finds our couple exploring different opportunities.
The secondary characters include Gretchen’s sisters, her manager and a few friends, as well as some of Hunter’s fellow Billionaire Boys club members. We get a crash course on how NOT to be a butler that allows for a few humorous moments as Gretchen’s sarcastic side makes an appearance.
BEAUTY AND THE BILLIONAIRE is an emotional and passionate storyline of acceptance and love. There is romance and sex; betrayal and heartbreak when the lines of communication become bogged down in hearsay and innuendo. A case of mistaken belief pulls our couple apart but not before words are spoken in anger and emotions control the heart.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
kendra
Summary
Hunter Buchanan, is a real estate tycoon, and because he is scarred, no woman will come near him. He is respected because of his wealth and business intellect, but that is as far as it goes. He is lonely and craves companionship, and when he spies Gretchen he knows that she is the one woman for him. So he devises a plan to bring her to his home to work on some letters for writing a book, hoping to make her see the man beneath the scars. Gretchen is a ghostwriter, and when she is given a great offer to write and transcribe some letters for a new book, she can’t pass this opportunity up. When she arrives though, the mansion has only a few servants, and has a rigid schedule, and the man of the house is a recluse, and is a bit of a beast at times. But she senses more from Hunter than meets the eye, and despite his scars, she sees a man that needs her and she sees the man beneath his rough exterior, a man that has never known love or affection, and has only a few friends and one loyal bitter servant. Soon Hunter and Gretchen will soon learn that you need to have faith in love or it won’t work, will these two find a balance in each other?
The Hero
Hunter Buchanan was kidnapped when he was a child, and trying to escape, ended up barely getting away alive, and was scarred for life. Hunter’s father was a man who cared more about money than his own son. But when Hunter went to college, the saving grace was the friends he made, friends that saw past his appearance and she the inner part of him. Hunter is a hero that is very “tortured male”…and it just broke my heart. It was quite heartbreaking seeing more and more of his character come through in this story, We see bits and pieces of him, a damaged man but not a broken one. He is on the hunt to be accepted and loved by a woman, to have passion and companionship. To be loved for who he is and not for his money.
The Heroine
Gretchen is spirited and lively, and who wouldn’t love her. Gretchen makes a living by being a ghostwriter, but lately her writing has been falling short and she needs something more or she could be out on the streets soon. When she is given a offer, that is the best opportunity, but would have her living in a house with a man who is a recluse, she is cautious, but she is drawn to this opportunity. She soon sees that there is more to her boss than meets the eye, and sets out to show him who she really is. What I loved about Gretchen is her accepting nature, she doesn’t see Hunter as most others do, she sees a man hurting and in need of her. She takes a look at his scars, but doesn’t see a beast but a man worthy of love. Gretchen is bold and goes after her “prey” which was quite entertaining. I loved the way she goes after what she wants and is a fighter.
Plot and Story Line
This is a “beauty and the beast” themed story but in a contemporary setting. Which I actually love this trope, and even though it can be overdone, I loved the way that Jessica Clare wrote this one. In the previous book, we see the beginning of the story happening, so it was fun seeing it just start off from where the first book left off. Beauty and the Billionaire, is a story that won my heart with every page written. I loved the different feel to this story from the first book. We have the Beauty (Gretchen), and the Beast (Hunter), and at first they don’t see much of each other, but Gretchen grows more bolder, and Hunter becomes more open to her advances, and it was quite entertaining seeing these two come together finally. There are quite a few obstacles that they need to overcome before they have any hope of getting their HEA, but they find it, and what a beautiful way it is found too. I love the flow of the story, and the writing just kept me reading and this was such a page turner, I had the most difficult time putting it down. This author has a talented way with her writing of captivating her audience. I found these two characters to be just wonderful for each other, and boy some of the bedroom scenes are quite thrilling and sexy, but what I loved most was seeing the love story to be the primary focus of the story, and seeing it grow and bloom was quite fun. Another great aspect was seeing the way this story comes together, it was very riveting at times, and kept me on tinder hooks, and it also gave us a little teaser at the end for the third book which I am very excited for now.
The Cover
I still don’t know what to think about the covers. I mean they are pretty of course, but they aren’t really relevant to the story in any way.
Overall View
Beauty and the Billioniare is an emotional love tale of compassion, trust, and what true love really takes….this is a story that is enthralls the reader with every page, a tender love story to capture you from page one. SIMPLY SPLENDID!!
Hunter Buchanan, is a real estate tycoon, and because he is scarred, no woman will come near him. He is respected because of his wealth and business intellect, but that is as far as it goes. He is lonely and craves companionship, and when he spies Gretchen he knows that she is the one woman for him. So he devises a plan to bring her to his home to work on some letters for writing a book, hoping to make her see the man beneath the scars. Gretchen is a ghostwriter, and when she is given a great offer to write and transcribe some letters for a new book, she can’t pass this opportunity up. When she arrives though, the mansion has only a few servants, and has a rigid schedule, and the man of the house is a recluse, and is a bit of a beast at times. But she senses more from Hunter than meets the eye, and despite his scars, she sees a man that needs her and she sees the man beneath his rough exterior, a man that has never known love or affection, and has only a few friends and one loyal bitter servant. Soon Hunter and Gretchen will soon learn that you need to have faith in love or it won’t work, will these two find a balance in each other?
The Hero
Hunter Buchanan was kidnapped when he was a child, and trying to escape, ended up barely getting away alive, and was scarred for life. Hunter’s father was a man who cared more about money than his own son. But when Hunter went to college, the saving grace was the friends he made, friends that saw past his appearance and she the inner part of him. Hunter is a hero that is very “tortured male”…and it just broke my heart. It was quite heartbreaking seeing more and more of his character come through in this story, We see bits and pieces of him, a damaged man but not a broken one. He is on the hunt to be accepted and loved by a woman, to have passion and companionship. To be loved for who he is and not for his money.
The Heroine
Gretchen is spirited and lively, and who wouldn’t love her. Gretchen makes a living by being a ghostwriter, but lately her writing has been falling short and she needs something more or she could be out on the streets soon. When she is given a offer, that is the best opportunity, but would have her living in a house with a man who is a recluse, she is cautious, but she is drawn to this opportunity. She soon sees that there is more to her boss than meets the eye, and sets out to show him who she really is. What I loved about Gretchen is her accepting nature, she doesn’t see Hunter as most others do, she sees a man hurting and in need of her. She takes a look at his scars, but doesn’t see a beast but a man worthy of love. Gretchen is bold and goes after her “prey” which was quite entertaining. I loved the way she goes after what she wants and is a fighter.
Plot and Story Line
This is a “beauty and the beast” themed story but in a contemporary setting. Which I actually love this trope, and even though it can be overdone, I loved the way that Jessica Clare wrote this one. In the previous book, we see the beginning of the story happening, so it was fun seeing it just start off from where the first book left off. Beauty and the Billionaire, is a story that won my heart with every page written. I loved the different feel to this story from the first book. We have the Beauty (Gretchen), and the Beast (Hunter), and at first they don’t see much of each other, but Gretchen grows more bolder, and Hunter becomes more open to her advances, and it was quite entertaining seeing these two come together finally. There are quite a few obstacles that they need to overcome before they have any hope of getting their HEA, but they find it, and what a beautiful way it is found too. I love the flow of the story, and the writing just kept me reading and this was such a page turner, I had the most difficult time putting it down. This author has a talented way with her writing of captivating her audience. I found these two characters to be just wonderful for each other, and boy some of the bedroom scenes are quite thrilling and sexy, but what I loved most was seeing the love story to be the primary focus of the story, and seeing it grow and bloom was quite fun. Another great aspect was seeing the way this story comes together, it was very riveting at times, and kept me on tinder hooks, and it also gave us a little teaser at the end for the third book which I am very excited for now.
The Cover
I still don’t know what to think about the covers. I mean they are pretty of course, but they aren’t really relevant to the story in any way.
Overall View
Beauty and the Billioniare is an emotional love tale of compassion, trust, and what true love really takes….this is a story that is enthralls the reader with every page, a tender love story to capture you from page one. SIMPLY SPLENDID!!
A Billionaire Fake Marriage Romance (Only Pretend Book 1) :: Accidental Hero: A Marriage Mistake Romance :: Wicked Games (Games series Book 1) :: Compromising the Billionaire (Scandals of the Bad Boy Billionaires Book 9) :: Last Hit (A Hitman Novel Book 1)
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
andreas
Beauty and the Billionaire is the love story between Hunter and Gretchen. Two unlikely people to fall in love who, because of certain circumstances end up falling in love. Hunter is a tortured soul who doesn't believe that anyone could actually love him, and Gretchen is the carefree outgoing woman who is the one that could fall for him.
If there's one thing to know about me it's how much I love Disney's Beauty and the Beast so I automatically gravitated towards this book just for the title. And as the book continued on it reminded me more and more of Disney's version-while some people would've hated this I absolutely loved it. I was falling in love with Hunter and Gretchen at the same time I was deepening my love for Belle and Beast (or Prince Adam if you prefer). Hunter, in my opinion, is better than Beast though. Hunter-while being the dark and pessimistic guy that he is, is also really sweet and caring. He is what I would hope to one day find in a man. I found myself "awh"-ing at most of what he said just because he was so adorable. Gretchen was a little too outgoing for my tastes but that is why Hunter falls for her, which is then a redeemable quality. In the end I loved this book, and I would recommend everyone to read it-I've already told some of my friends to keep an eye out for it because I know they'll love it to pieces.
If there's one thing to know about me it's how much I love Disney's Beauty and the Beast so I automatically gravitated towards this book just for the title. And as the book continued on it reminded me more and more of Disney's version-while some people would've hated this I absolutely loved it. I was falling in love with Hunter and Gretchen at the same time I was deepening my love for Belle and Beast (or Prince Adam if you prefer). Hunter, in my opinion, is better than Beast though. Hunter-while being the dark and pessimistic guy that he is, is also really sweet and caring. He is what I would hope to one day find in a man. I found myself "awh"-ing at most of what he said just because he was so adorable. Gretchen was a little too outgoing for my tastes but that is why Hunter falls for her, which is then a redeemable quality. In the end I loved this book, and I would recommend everyone to read it-I've already told some of my friends to keep an eye out for it because I know they'll love it to pieces.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
bonnie fineman
I knew it! I called it, I called it!! Spectacular! This novel deserves ever star it receives.
I was never bothered by date, time, weather, nothing. I just wanted intimate moments with Hunter and Gretchen. I love them together. I can't repeat it enough, but I am inexplicably, all consuming in love with these two as both individuals and a couple.
This is romance. This book brings you back to your Disney days! Beauty and the Beast don't know about this kind of love and passion. :D
The build up, anticipation, angst, chemistry. The whole plot was great and captured me from beginning to end. I couldn't and didn't want to put this book down.
I wasn't sure of the specifics as to what to expect from this duo, but I got it and more. The only thing I could ask for, was a more solid ending. I had no problem with the ending, but I would have loved an epilogue or even more changes and updates. I feel as if we ended with many possibilities and no concern.
Grumpy or not, Eldon is awesome! He is not your usual family butler. He is impersonal, grumpy, straight forward and he was a great input to this story line. He gave as good as he got and kept us laughing and on our toes. I'm sorry he couldn't have seen the light, but that's what makes him who he is and I would have him no other way.
Igor was back :) I really love that crazy cat! His role is small, but he also adds to this story. Honestly, the only irrelevant character I saw throughout this story was Daphne. Maybe she will end up with one of the guys. I sort of hope not. I already don't like her very much so it will take a miracle to convert me to her side.
I loved Gretchen in 'Stranded with a Billionaire' and I knew she would not disappoint. I am proud to say she is my favorite character within this series and I can't see no one to top her at the moment. Maybe Hunter. I'll mull it over some more :)
She is outspoken, crass, direct, funny, witty and her seduction techniques and dirty talks have you confused. Yes, confused, because your laughing when you shouldn't and smirking more than you are sad or turned on.
She shocked me as being the epitome of a romantic, but I still love her. I adore the insight into her writing process of 'Astronaut Bill', however silly the whole story was. It felt like being in the mind of a writer and I loved that. You were taken on a thought process and lifestyle, however ridiculously or loosely portrayed. Everything within this novel felt real, raw, primal and showed the level of research and execution placed in this novel.
Hunter had his many predicaments. He is the epitome of quirk and recluse. I loved that we finally got his back story, whilst we got to experience the intimate moments between him and Gretchen. To watch as they built their bond and acted on their feelings was great and held no cliches of your usual billionaire romance.
Hunter's inexperience and recluse manner gave this story a certain air and character. We only went to the poker table once, but I liked the vibe. It was different from previous meetings. I am still no warmer with the other members of this club, but this wasn't about them. Hopefully in time, I will yearn for their story like I did this one.
I loved that our focus was more on the relationship than on Hunter's scars or money, as is most billionaire romance novels. The sex scenes held the right amount of lust, love, admiration, chemistry and intensity.
Overall, the writing in this book was brilliant and the characters kept you interested and filled with all sorts of emotions. I can truly say this is the best book so far in this series and I will miss Hunter and Gretchen.
I was never bothered by date, time, weather, nothing. I just wanted intimate moments with Hunter and Gretchen. I love them together. I can't repeat it enough, but I am inexplicably, all consuming in love with these two as both individuals and a couple.
This is romance. This book brings you back to your Disney days! Beauty and the Beast don't know about this kind of love and passion. :D
The build up, anticipation, angst, chemistry. The whole plot was great and captured me from beginning to end. I couldn't and didn't want to put this book down.
I wasn't sure of the specifics as to what to expect from this duo, but I got it and more. The only thing I could ask for, was a more solid ending. I had no problem with the ending, but I would have loved an epilogue or even more changes and updates. I feel as if we ended with many possibilities and no concern.
Grumpy or not, Eldon is awesome! He is not your usual family butler. He is impersonal, grumpy, straight forward and he was a great input to this story line. He gave as good as he got and kept us laughing and on our toes. I'm sorry he couldn't have seen the light, but that's what makes him who he is and I would have him no other way.
Igor was back :) I really love that crazy cat! His role is small, but he also adds to this story. Honestly, the only irrelevant character I saw throughout this story was Daphne. Maybe she will end up with one of the guys. I sort of hope not. I already don't like her very much so it will take a miracle to convert me to her side.
I loved Gretchen in 'Stranded with a Billionaire' and I knew she would not disappoint. I am proud to say she is my favorite character within this series and I can't see no one to top her at the moment. Maybe Hunter. I'll mull it over some more :)
She is outspoken, crass, direct, funny, witty and her seduction techniques and dirty talks have you confused. Yes, confused, because your laughing when you shouldn't and smirking more than you are sad or turned on.
She shocked me as being the epitome of a romantic, but I still love her. I adore the insight into her writing process of 'Astronaut Bill', however silly the whole story was. It felt like being in the mind of a writer and I loved that. You were taken on a thought process and lifestyle, however ridiculously or loosely portrayed. Everything within this novel felt real, raw, primal and showed the level of research and execution placed in this novel.
Hunter had his many predicaments. He is the epitome of quirk and recluse. I loved that we finally got his back story, whilst we got to experience the intimate moments between him and Gretchen. To watch as they built their bond and acted on their feelings was great and held no cliches of your usual billionaire romance.
Hunter's inexperience and recluse manner gave this story a certain air and character. We only went to the poker table once, but I liked the vibe. It was different from previous meetings. I am still no warmer with the other members of this club, but this wasn't about them. Hopefully in time, I will yearn for their story like I did this one.
I loved that our focus was more on the relationship than on Hunter's scars or money, as is most billionaire romance novels. The sex scenes held the right amount of lust, love, admiration, chemistry and intensity.
Overall, the writing in this book was brilliant and the characters kept you interested and filled with all sorts of emotions. I can truly say this is the best book so far in this series and I will miss Hunter and Gretchen.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
kim person
3.5 Stars
Reviewed by Guest Reviewer/Jan & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog
Hunter Buchanan owns a wealthy real estate business inherited by his Father not by choice, but because he was his Father's only heir. He is a closed off kind of guy who is careful about who he lets in his life not only because of his family's money, but because he has a past that literally left him scarred. He tries to keep himself in the shadows to avoid looks from everyone especially woman as they give him a freakish look once they take a look at him.
Gretchen Petty is a ghost writer living in SoHo and working part time at a coffee shop. She doesn't look at guys on the outside, but sees the better of them on the inside. She is an awesome gal with a cool personality who is not only straight forward, but has a witty sarcasm.
While Hunter was leaving after inspecting a town house, he heard two female voices and automatically moved to an area of shadow. Bronte (Logan Hawkings fiancee) and Gretchen were the female voices. Gretchen caught his eye without her noticing him in the shadows as she had her back towards him, still not knowing he was there. Hunter was fascinated with Gretchen and wanted to know about her. Once he found out through Bronte that her full name is Gretchen Petty who is ghost writer, he was determined to do what it takes to get to know her.
When Gretchen accepts a project from which a publishing company requested for her to write a romance novel from letters that was found at a famous mansion, the Buchanan Manor, she had to move into the mansion for the duration of the project as the letters are not to leave the property.
After settling in at the mansion, Gretchen gets a little nosey and snoops around the mansion up until she sees a well hung guy with a gorgeously fit body and scarred face coming out of the shower. Hunter was caught off guard once he seen Gretchen and yelled at her to get away. Not a great meet and greet right? Totally started off wrong.
After each other's apologies, things start to pick up between Hunter and Gretchen. Slowly, but surely. I honestly started to get frustrated so things could get straight to the point. With Gretchen's patience and being a go getter, their sexual encounters start to get hot and steamy.
As their relationship progresses, they both find things out about each other that leaves them both broken hearted and Gretchen moves out of the Buchanan Manor sooner than planned. Their time apart was a test to their relationship. Could they get passed the hurdle?
About the first half of the book was a little slow for me, but it left me curious about what's going to happen between Hunter and Gretchen. I guess the first part of the book is getting to know Hunter and his ways as well as Gretchen's easy going, witty sarcasm. Once things started to pick up, I didn't want to put the book down.
Reviewed by Guest Reviewer/Jan & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog
Hunter Buchanan owns a wealthy real estate business inherited by his Father not by choice, but because he was his Father's only heir. He is a closed off kind of guy who is careful about who he lets in his life not only because of his family's money, but because he has a past that literally left him scarred. He tries to keep himself in the shadows to avoid looks from everyone especially woman as they give him a freakish look once they take a look at him.
Gretchen Petty is a ghost writer living in SoHo and working part time at a coffee shop. She doesn't look at guys on the outside, but sees the better of them on the inside. She is an awesome gal with a cool personality who is not only straight forward, but has a witty sarcasm.
While Hunter was leaving after inspecting a town house, he heard two female voices and automatically moved to an area of shadow. Bronte (Logan Hawkings fiancee) and Gretchen were the female voices. Gretchen caught his eye without her noticing him in the shadows as she had her back towards him, still not knowing he was there. Hunter was fascinated with Gretchen and wanted to know about her. Once he found out through Bronte that her full name is Gretchen Petty who is ghost writer, he was determined to do what it takes to get to know her.
When Gretchen accepts a project from which a publishing company requested for her to write a romance novel from letters that was found at a famous mansion, the Buchanan Manor, she had to move into the mansion for the duration of the project as the letters are not to leave the property.
After settling in at the mansion, Gretchen gets a little nosey and snoops around the mansion up until she sees a well hung guy with a gorgeously fit body and scarred face coming out of the shower. Hunter was caught off guard once he seen Gretchen and yelled at her to get away. Not a great meet and greet right? Totally started off wrong.
After each other's apologies, things start to pick up between Hunter and Gretchen. Slowly, but surely. I honestly started to get frustrated so things could get straight to the point. With Gretchen's patience and being a go getter, their sexual encounters start to get hot and steamy.
As their relationship progresses, they both find things out about each other that leaves them both broken hearted and Gretchen moves out of the Buchanan Manor sooner than planned. Their time apart was a test to their relationship. Could they get passed the hurdle?
About the first half of the book was a little slow for me, but it left me curious about what's going to happen between Hunter and Gretchen. I guess the first part of the book is getting to know Hunter and his ways as well as Gretchen's easy going, witty sarcasm. Once things started to pick up, I didn't want to put the book down.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
cosied
5 Heart Warming “Beauty and the Beast” STARS
OH.MY.GOSH! If you love the story of Beauty and the Beast then this book is for you!!!! It’s SUPER SUPER SUPER CUTE!!!!
You have the scared Hero, Hunter. He has scars all over his face, his torso and he’s also missing a finger! Don’t you feel for him? Because he’s so scared, Hunter is recluse, stays in his mansion and hardly gets out, but he’s also very lonely.
Gretchen is a beauty, but a broke one. She’s a writer and she’s writes books she doesn’t like, but she does it for the pay check. When a publishing company offers her a job to write a book for lots of money, it’s too hard to pass up. However, she must write a book where her references are located and it’s in a mansion.
Wait for it….
At Hunter’s mansion! Because Hunter set up the publishing company to get to know Gretchen better.
Review
I’m starting to really like this series. This one just takes the cake on cuteness factor. I couldn’t get over the storyline and I wanted to gobble ever y page. The heart of the story lies within Hunter. He’s so damaged because of his appearance, as he should because he lets us know how people cringe when they see him.
I LOVE HUNTER!!!! He’s so venerable, adorable, awkward and crazy sexy at the same time. Since he was scared at a young age, so he doesn’t have much experience with women and when he’s around Gretchen, he’s put off and very timid.
Gretchen is sassy and has a very cute personality. I wouldn’t say she’s super strong character, but just a fun-loving, I-want-to-be-her-friend kind of character. She tries to banter with Hunter to get him to loosen up and it’s really sweet to read.
Hunter is very attracted to Gretchen and longs for her but because of his appearance he doesn’t attempt to get closer to Gretchen, he’s perfectly fine just having her around. Gretchen is intrigued by Hunter and wants to purse a friendship with him, but Hunter doesn’t make it easy for her.
I really like Beauty and the Billionaire because of how Jessica Clare set up her characters. She created a hero that was just so interesting and loving to read I was just immersed. This story mirrors a lot like the Beauty and Beast storyline, but it’s not an exact plot. I love this because Beauty and the Billionaire is just a new modern twist from a classic fairy tale.
I could have ready this over and over . I recommend!
OH.MY.GOSH! If you love the story of Beauty and the Beast then this book is for you!!!! It’s SUPER SUPER SUPER CUTE!!!!
You have the scared Hero, Hunter. He has scars all over his face, his torso and he’s also missing a finger! Don’t you feel for him? Because he’s so scared, Hunter is recluse, stays in his mansion and hardly gets out, but he’s also very lonely.
Gretchen is a beauty, but a broke one. She’s a writer and she’s writes books she doesn’t like, but she does it for the pay check. When a publishing company offers her a job to write a book for lots of money, it’s too hard to pass up. However, she must write a book where her references are located and it’s in a mansion.
Wait for it….
At Hunter’s mansion! Because Hunter set up the publishing company to get to know Gretchen better.
Review
I’m starting to really like this series. This one just takes the cake on cuteness factor. I couldn’t get over the storyline and I wanted to gobble ever y page. The heart of the story lies within Hunter. He’s so damaged because of his appearance, as he should because he lets us know how people cringe when they see him.
I LOVE HUNTER!!!! He’s so venerable, adorable, awkward and crazy sexy at the same time. Since he was scared at a young age, so he doesn’t have much experience with women and when he’s around Gretchen, he’s put off and very timid.
Gretchen is sassy and has a very cute personality. I wouldn’t say she’s super strong character, but just a fun-loving, I-want-to-be-her-friend kind of character. She tries to banter with Hunter to get him to loosen up and it’s really sweet to read.
Hunter is very attracted to Gretchen and longs for her but because of his appearance he doesn’t attempt to get closer to Gretchen, he’s perfectly fine just having her around. Gretchen is intrigued by Hunter and wants to purse a friendship with him, but Hunter doesn’t make it easy for her.
I really like Beauty and the Billionaire because of how Jessica Clare set up her characters. She created a hero that was just so interesting and loving to read I was just immersed. This story mirrors a lot like the Beauty and Beast storyline, but it’s not an exact plot. I love this because Beauty and the Billionaire is just a new modern twist from a classic fairy tale.
I could have ready this over and over . I recommend!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
akram
Fabulous second book in a the amazing Billionaire Boys Club Series! This is definitely a spin on the classic story of Beauty and the Beast and I love what Jessica Clare has done with it! We first met Hunter and Gretchen in Stranded with a Billionaire and know that Hunter is a recluse and definitely an odd person trying to hide in the shadows of life while Gretchen is a working, but unhappy Ghost Writer for a very amusing set of books. Hunter wants to get to know Gretchen better and does so by secretly hiring her to write a book about letters he "found" in his families estate. However, when Gretchen arrives, the job that she agreed to turned out to be something entirely different. Although they both went through their hardships and awkward phases throughout the book, you really understood the emotions of both characters and how deeply they ran. The arrangement, which started off as a business deal, turns into a slightly erotic and highly emotional relationship. As with all of these books, the H screws up and then gets the girl back with a grand gesture and we still get our HEA, which was great in this book! I loved Gretchen - she is such a smarta**, but truly sensitive and a good person at heart. She made me laugh throughout the book and continues to do so in the sequels to this series. Highly recommend!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
t rkay
I have loved every book Jessica Clare has written.. this second book in the Billionaire series Blew me away... This story is a new twist on beauty and the beast! This unique and heart stopping story of Hunter a man who is physically and mentally scared.. He cannot believe any woman would see him for who he is ..not look at the scars and run!!! That was until Gretchen the sexy cookie red head!!! He saw her and wanted to know more of her... he orchestrated an action that meant she had to stay in his mansion for a month...What would happen ?? I laughed out loud ...I cried like a baby.. my heart hit the floor many times... I have to say all the guys Jessica has written about Hunter has to be my favourite.. I just wanted to hug him and tell him all would be well.. Will he find the love he is so desperate for?? I am looking forward to reading third book in the series... You have to read this book it can be read as a stand alone but I would say read the whole series.. Jessica Clare you ROCKED it with this book!!! Thank you for your awesome writing
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
michelle n
I'm enjoying the Billionaire series. They are typical love stories where the guy does something sneaky to be near the woman and the woman falls in love with the guy only to find out he was sneaky and it hurts her feelings. The guy also misunderstands things and also has hurt feelings. But of course the hurt feelings happen after they have fallen in love and had hot sex constantly. This is about Gretchen, the ghostwriter who barely gets by and Hunter the physically scarred recluse who thinks women are only with him for his money. They are both very likable characters and enjoyable to read their relationship develop. This is a great steamy beach read or a steamy sit by the fire with a hot chocolate and a blanket on a cold winter day read. Or a steamy lounging in a hammock in the shade read. Whatever kind you like, it's steamy and enjoyable.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
kaarin
Wow …. That book just simply amazing! I couldn’t put it down till the end
My favorite’s stories in the whole wide world are Beauty and the Beast and the Phantom of the Opera. This book is kind of a mix of both but in a much modern way! I wasn’t sure how I would feel about Gretchen but she really surprised me. Down to earth, simple but elegant and with such a big heart. Oh and Hunter that big softie, makes me whish that one I’ll find my Prince too and he kind of make you believe that fairy tales do come true.
A book that needs to be read
My favorite’s stories in the whole wide world are Beauty and the Beast and the Phantom of the Opera. This book is kind of a mix of both but in a much modern way! I wasn’t sure how I would feel about Gretchen but she really surprised me. Down to earth, simple but elegant and with such a big heart. Oh and Hunter that big softie, makes me whish that one I’ll find my Prince too and he kind of make you believe that fairy tales do come true.
A book that needs to be read
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
raymond j
Beauty and the Billionaire, Billionaire Boys Club #2, by Jessica Clare
Grade: B
“I want to make our story, not follow someone else’s.”
“Save me from rich, attractive alpha males. They think they’re the heroes from a fairy tale. Little do the know, they’re more like the villains.”
Hunter Buchanan has spent his life living in shadows. After a horrible experience as a child left him scarred and disfigured, Hunter has been reluctant to let anyone get close to him except the five other men of the Billionaire Boys Club. Gretchen Petty is a game changer for Hunter and he will do whatever it takes to meet and spend time with her. To accomplish this he comes up with a grand scheme that will have Gretchen living in his house for a month, which will hopefully give him enough time for her to get over his appearance. Hunter is shocked at how friendly Gretchen is and his fascination soon morphs into something more.
Gretchen Petty has spent her life writing for other people and barely scraping by. When an amazing opportunity presents itself she has no choice but to say yes. With her new job comes her employer Hunter Buchanan who is full of mystery and an amazing body. Gretchen finds herself trying to breakdown Hunter’s walls to find the real man inside and bring him out of the shadows. What Gretchen didn’t expect was to develop feelings for Hunter or have to spend time convincing him and the rest of the world they are real.
This book was an amazing read and has made me desperate for more books from these crazy billionaires. I was hesitant to read Beauty and the Billionaire due to the fact that it’s a play on Beauty and the Beast. I wasn’t sure how this would work out and if there would be enough of Hunter and Gretchen to make this feel new and fresh. I am happy to say Jessica Clare did a fabulous job of taking a familiar story not only turning it into something new, but making it a must read.
Gretchen is such a fun heroine. I laughed out loud at her inner and outer dialogue and I loved that she was fearless when it came to Hunter. Gretchen wasn’t intimidated my Hunter’s wealth and it didn’t seem to be an issue at all. It was very refreshing to have a book about a billionaire not really focus very much on the wealth but more on the interactions of the main characters. I’m not saying money doesn’t come up but it didn’t seem to be one of the main issues that Hunter and Gretchen built their relationship on.
This book was beautifully done and I am now a huge fan of the series. I cannot wait to see the next billionaire get knocked off his feet by love, especially since Reese is up next! This is a very fun and sexy series that I recommend to all romance readers.
Grade: B
“I want to make our story, not follow someone else’s.”
“Save me from rich, attractive alpha males. They think they’re the heroes from a fairy tale. Little do the know, they’re more like the villains.”
Hunter Buchanan has spent his life living in shadows. After a horrible experience as a child left him scarred and disfigured, Hunter has been reluctant to let anyone get close to him except the five other men of the Billionaire Boys Club. Gretchen Petty is a game changer for Hunter and he will do whatever it takes to meet and spend time with her. To accomplish this he comes up with a grand scheme that will have Gretchen living in his house for a month, which will hopefully give him enough time for her to get over his appearance. Hunter is shocked at how friendly Gretchen is and his fascination soon morphs into something more.
Gretchen Petty has spent her life writing for other people and barely scraping by. When an amazing opportunity presents itself she has no choice but to say yes. With her new job comes her employer Hunter Buchanan who is full of mystery and an amazing body. Gretchen finds herself trying to breakdown Hunter’s walls to find the real man inside and bring him out of the shadows. What Gretchen didn’t expect was to develop feelings for Hunter or have to spend time convincing him and the rest of the world they are real.
This book was an amazing read and has made me desperate for more books from these crazy billionaires. I was hesitant to read Beauty and the Billionaire due to the fact that it’s a play on Beauty and the Beast. I wasn’t sure how this would work out and if there would be enough of Hunter and Gretchen to make this feel new and fresh. I am happy to say Jessica Clare did a fabulous job of taking a familiar story not only turning it into something new, but making it a must read.
Gretchen is such a fun heroine. I laughed out loud at her inner and outer dialogue and I loved that she was fearless when it came to Hunter. Gretchen wasn’t intimidated my Hunter’s wealth and it didn’t seem to be an issue at all. It was very refreshing to have a book about a billionaire not really focus very much on the wealth but more on the interactions of the main characters. I’m not saying money doesn’t come up but it didn’t seem to be one of the main issues that Hunter and Gretchen built their relationship on.
This book was beautifully done and I am now a huge fan of the series. I cannot wait to see the next billionaire get knocked off his feet by love, especially since Reese is up next! This is a very fun and sexy series that I recommend to all romance readers.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
anna tran
I love, love loved this book. Gretchen and Hunter are so cute together. Her with her brash, fearless and bright attitude and him being reserved, quiet and self-contained. She burst into his life and turned it upside down. She saw beyond his scars and personal walls and managed to smash her way through them. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would have liked a lot more Gretchen and Hunter, but alas, a book has to end sometime. Very good read.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
behzad behroozan
WOW, I love Jessica Clare's style of writing. She is one of those rare authors who doesn't need to use angst with the H/H to write a lovely heart felt story. Beauty and the Billionaire is beauty crafted and well written story. A must read!!
Hunter is a tortured soul and very lonely because of the hideous scars he incurred escaping form his kidnappers, but Hunters soul is beautiful. Gretchen is a wonderful H becasue she can see past Hunters scars an into the real loving but lonely billionaire's soul. The author makes you feel all of Hunters despair and all of Gretchen's determination to show Hunter how loveable and wanted he really is. I highly recommended Beauty and the Billionaire.
Hunter is a tortured soul and very lonely because of the hideous scars he incurred escaping form his kidnappers, but Hunters soul is beautiful. Gretchen is a wonderful H becasue she can see past Hunters scars an into the real loving but lonely billionaire's soul. The author makes you feel all of Hunters despair and all of Gretchen's determination to show Hunter how loveable and wanted he really is. I highly recommended Beauty and the Billionaire.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
bia hedegaard
Having really enjoyed Stranded with a Billionaire, and loving the character of the severely scarred Hunter, I simply devoured Beauty and the Billionaire the day it was released. When you wake up at 2am and realize its finally on your Nook, you've gotta read it don't you?
Taking off really right as Stranded with a Billionaire ends, Hunter Buchanan is entranced by Gretchen. In a scene from the first novel, Hunter overhears Gretchen tell her friend that looks aren't important in a man. Instantly intrigued, Hunter arranges for Gretchen, an author and a loner, to create a novel based around letters he has purchased.
The story as the title suggests has a very Beauty and the Beast feel to it. Hunter has been horribly scarred when he was younger and now lives as a recluse. Needing and wanting companionship, he invites Gretchen to his house and is utterly and adorably awkward with her. Uncomfortable around her and even having trouble conversing, Hunter
Gretchen meanwhile has her own issues to deal with. A stunted writing career, crazy sisters, and an empty checkbook creates a whirlwind of problems that she has little chance of escaping from unless some major things change. When the recluse in the mansion expects her to write a book about some letters he has, she finds it weird but goes along with the program. Trying to draw Hunter out of his shell and not allow him to live up to the beast persona proves to be almost more than she can deal with.
Beauty and the Billionaire is entrancing and as I said before, I woke up in the middle of the night to read it in its entirety. I stayed up for three hours reading frantically because I couldn't put it down and when I saw the clock read 5am, I decided I might as well stay up and finish. Wonderful characters, hot sex scenes, and a complex relationship round out Clare's newest release. Can't wait for The Wrong Billionaire's Bed, coming in October!
Taking off really right as Stranded with a Billionaire ends, Hunter Buchanan is entranced by Gretchen. In a scene from the first novel, Hunter overhears Gretchen tell her friend that looks aren't important in a man. Instantly intrigued, Hunter arranges for Gretchen, an author and a loner, to create a novel based around letters he has purchased.
The story as the title suggests has a very Beauty and the Beast feel to it. Hunter has been horribly scarred when he was younger and now lives as a recluse. Needing and wanting companionship, he invites Gretchen to his house and is utterly and adorably awkward with her. Uncomfortable around her and even having trouble conversing, Hunter
Gretchen meanwhile has her own issues to deal with. A stunted writing career, crazy sisters, and an empty checkbook creates a whirlwind of problems that she has little chance of escaping from unless some major things change. When the recluse in the mansion expects her to write a book about some letters he has, she finds it weird but goes along with the program. Trying to draw Hunter out of his shell and not allow him to live up to the beast persona proves to be almost more than she can deal with.
Beauty and the Billionaire is entrancing and as I said before, I woke up in the middle of the night to read it in its entirety. I stayed up for three hours reading frantically because I couldn't put it down and when I saw the clock read 5am, I decided I might as well stay up and finish. Wonderful characters, hot sex scenes, and a complex relationship round out Clare's newest release. Can't wait for The Wrong Billionaire's Bed, coming in October!
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
nicole mcmahon
I enjoyed this read. It is escapist romance reading at its best. I was enthralled from the beginning and the revelations continued to where things got really interesting. A little old-fashioned, completely unrealistic but a nice twist on the beauty and the beast theme. I liked the character of Gretchen, she was outspoken but loving, brash but gentle. Hunter was a little difficult to take and I was not sure the crisis was even an issue but hey! I was enjoying the book so much as I read that I just went with the flow. In all a sweet book and one I would recommend as a light romance read.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
alex les
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Spoilers
I cycled through many emotions/feelings while reading this book: I felt the story was heartwarming, mushy, sweet, HOT, sexy, frustrating, annoying but most importantly…very engaging.
Hunter is a complex billionaire. Due to an accident early on in his life, Hunter has a disfigurement, which he has let guide his interactions with people. Hunter becomes enamored with Gretchen when she is running an errand which leads her and a friend to Hunter’s home. Unbeknownst to Gretchen, she has caught the attention of Hunter. As any self-respecting reclusive billionaire would due (catch my sarcasm?), Hunter engineers the situation so that he and Gretchen can spend time together getting to know each other. But for some reason his desperation seems to be endearing.
Gretchen is an unhappy author working for a publishing house (though her realization as to why she is so unhappy with her profession does not come until near the end of the book…however, an astute reader may guess why earlier :) ). Caught in an awkward situation at her part-time job, Gretchen grabs the chance to get away for the duration of this new writing project that is thrown in her lap to sort out the issues as they relate to her part-time job.
I got a hearty chuckle out of:
“Gee, I hope he’s in charge of the tour,” Gretchen mock-whispered. “He’s got some incredible people skills.” When Gretchen was lead into the mansion by the butler.
And…
“This cat is better to cuddle with than my last boyfriend.” Another line that produced a chuckle as well as a potential relatable situation :) .
Gretchen settles into the manor and stealthily insinuates herself into Hunter’s life, whether he likes it or not. I love her wit (as does Hunter). Gretchen is a loveable, down to earth, brash (a bit of stereotyping for this red head ???) woman who knows what and whom she wants. And needless to say she wants Hunter.
Hunter has some surprises (which I will leave as surprises), which make him an attractive male not only to Gretchen but this reader as well. There are stumbles in the relationship as Hunter is awkward and used to getting his own way as opposed to letting nature take its course. He will (and does) learn.
Now let me tell you….the sexy scenes were STEAMY with a capital “S”. So if you like steamy and sexy, you won’t be disappointed. I was impressed that the steamy came off as classy and not torrid or raunchy (which is good in my opinion).
As I indicated in my review of book one of the series, I can again say that I was pleased to read that Gretchen and Hunter did practice safe sex, there was concern and respect for each other.
I enjoyed the complexity of the characters and their story. The range of emotions I went through with this story was refreshing and kept me entertained throughout the entire read. I am becoming more enamoured with the writing style of Ms. Clare as well. I shall definitely continue on with this series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Spoilers
I cycled through many emotions/feelings while reading this book: I felt the story was heartwarming, mushy, sweet, HOT, sexy, frustrating, annoying but most importantly…very engaging.
Hunter is a complex billionaire. Due to an accident early on in his life, Hunter has a disfigurement, which he has let guide his interactions with people. Hunter becomes enamored with Gretchen when she is running an errand which leads her and a friend to Hunter’s home. Unbeknownst to Gretchen, she has caught the attention of Hunter. As any self-respecting reclusive billionaire would due (catch my sarcasm?), Hunter engineers the situation so that he and Gretchen can spend time together getting to know each other. But for some reason his desperation seems to be endearing.
Gretchen is an unhappy author working for a publishing house (though her realization as to why she is so unhappy with her profession does not come until near the end of the book…however, an astute reader may guess why earlier :) ). Caught in an awkward situation at her part-time job, Gretchen grabs the chance to get away for the duration of this new writing project that is thrown in her lap to sort out the issues as they relate to her part-time job.
I got a hearty chuckle out of:
“Gee, I hope he’s in charge of the tour,” Gretchen mock-whispered. “He’s got some incredible people skills.” When Gretchen was lead into the mansion by the butler.
And…
“This cat is better to cuddle with than my last boyfriend.” Another line that produced a chuckle as well as a potential relatable situation :) .
Gretchen settles into the manor and stealthily insinuates herself into Hunter’s life, whether he likes it or not. I love her wit (as does Hunter). Gretchen is a loveable, down to earth, brash (a bit of stereotyping for this red head ???) woman who knows what and whom she wants. And needless to say she wants Hunter.
Hunter has some surprises (which I will leave as surprises), which make him an attractive male not only to Gretchen but this reader as well. There are stumbles in the relationship as Hunter is awkward and used to getting his own way as opposed to letting nature take its course. He will (and does) learn.
Now let me tell you….the sexy scenes were STEAMY with a capital “S”. So if you like steamy and sexy, you won’t be disappointed. I was impressed that the steamy came off as classy and not torrid or raunchy (which is good in my opinion).
As I indicated in my review of book one of the series, I can again say that I was pleased to read that Gretchen and Hunter did practice safe sex, there was concern and respect for each other.
I enjoyed the complexity of the characters and their story. The range of emotions I went through with this story was refreshing and kept me entertained throughout the entire read. I am becoming more enamoured with the writing style of Ms. Clare as well. I shall definitely continue on with this series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
sean spencer
This story of Gretchen and Hunter was great. He's a scarred billionaire and she's a reluctant writer. They are thrown together for a epistolary writing project and from there...well you know.
I thought Hunter and Gretchen were fantastic characters with lots of depth. The sex scenes were HOT...really HOT but the love story was equally satisfying. His love for her was so pure and heartfelt at times it was heartbreaking.
I thought Hunter and Gretchen were fantastic characters with lots of depth. The sex scenes were HOT...really HOT but the love story was equally satisfying. His love for her was so pure and heartfelt at times it was heartbreaking.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
ogdensign
So far loving this book series. What a great story and different from the usual alpha male billionaire story. This time the virgin was the hero. You feel the torture and loneliness Hunter goes through and the a ray of hope and light comes from a brassy red head who can look beyond the external features of a kind, generous and timid person and love him for the wonderful man he can be with her at his side.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
james price
Another instalment from the Billionaire series, but this time it does around the events in the previous book. A while back, Bronte and her new friend Gretchen was picking up some boxes of books from a mansion and the recluse owner eavesdropped into the conversation and find himself intrigue with one of the girl. When his friend Logan brought Bronte to the secret club as a show of trust, he managed to obtain several new information about the girl -particularly about being a ghostwriter- and end up setting a trap for her by buying a publishing house and offering her a chance to write a book about a boxful of letters he secretly bought for her but claimed he found it in his house. It is creepy but mostly because Hunter was an outcast and kept himself in the shadow because of his past that left his face scarred like the phantom of the opera. And yes, this is a premise for Beauty and the Beast.
Hunter is the most intriguing character in the story next to the vibrant Gretchen who despite all odds about her hating her job as a ghostwriter to a trashy pulp science fiction, she found herself intrigued by the 1800s letters which turn out to be a correspondent between two lovers and their explicit letters about themselves and also to the owner of the mansion.
For a light reading, I do found this book enjoyable and even if its cliched and often predictable, the interaction between the characters were never bland or boring. Cleverly written, fast paced and easy enough to like. If you're seeking for a good light romance and a modern tale of Beauty and the Beast, this book can never go wrong with it.
Hunter is the most intriguing character in the story next to the vibrant Gretchen who despite all odds about her hating her job as a ghostwriter to a trashy pulp science fiction, she found herself intrigued by the 1800s letters which turn out to be a correspondent between two lovers and their explicit letters about themselves and also to the owner of the mansion.
For a light reading, I do found this book enjoyable and even if its cliched and often predictable, the interaction between the characters were never bland or boring. Cleverly written, fast paced and easy enough to like. If you're seeking for a good light romance and a modern tale of Beauty and the Beast, this book can never go wrong with it.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
yara hossam
I received this book through a DA random drawing.
Ms. Clare handled the sending. She was great. Quick and friendly.
But the e copy I got had no cover, had instructions to insert certain things, had the name Jessica Madden as the author, so I am not really sure it was the final final. Now, this could be because I just got a Mobi format, not specifically through Kindle. I know nothing about the intricacies so I don't really know if that is a part of why there were inconsistencies.
That being said, it was well written and well edited. There were a few word issues, formatting issues and such, but nothing that affected the enjoyment of the book.
I did enjoy the book. I had some suspension of disbelief issues such as our Beauty not knowing about the Billionaire's disfigurement. One would think in today's world of instant info she would have sat down at the computer and done some basic searching. I also had issues with her sister, the assistant of a close friend of the Billionaire's, not warning the Beauty of the disfigurement if it was just so awful people flinch when seeing him.
This book was sensitively written and actually told a story. There were allusions and a cross-over with the first in this series, but there is no reason this can't be read on its own. It also had some pivotal bits for the setting up of the third book in this series. But they weren't just plot devices (yeah, they were major plot points) so the foundation for book three was nicely set up but not intrusive.
I was kind of confused as to whether this was meant to be erotic or just "hot." I decided it was just a good story, executed well with some hot sex scenes.
I really, really disliked the portrayal of the Southern assistant in the latter part of the book. It was stereotypical and negative and dismissive. I know it was meant to be humorous, but it just totally missed the humor mark for me. Yeah, I am Southern and I work in the real world with Southern assistants and lawyers and doctors and other professionals. Portraying this assistant as sweet but really unsophisticated (shall we say hick) and clueless, yeah, kind of hit some hot buttons. But that is a me thing.
All in all, a great little read.
Ms. Clare handled the sending. She was great. Quick and friendly.
But the e copy I got had no cover, had instructions to insert certain things, had the name Jessica Madden as the author, so I am not really sure it was the final final. Now, this could be because I just got a Mobi format, not specifically through Kindle. I know nothing about the intricacies so I don't really know if that is a part of why there were inconsistencies.
That being said, it was well written and well edited. There were a few word issues, formatting issues and such, but nothing that affected the enjoyment of the book.
I did enjoy the book. I had some suspension of disbelief issues such as our Beauty not knowing about the Billionaire's disfigurement. One would think in today's world of instant info she would have sat down at the computer and done some basic searching. I also had issues with her sister, the assistant of a close friend of the Billionaire's, not warning the Beauty of the disfigurement if it was just so awful people flinch when seeing him.
This book was sensitively written and actually told a story. There were allusions and a cross-over with the first in this series, but there is no reason this can't be read on its own. It also had some pivotal bits for the setting up of the third book in this series. But they weren't just plot devices (yeah, they were major plot points) so the foundation for book three was nicely set up but not intrusive.
I was kind of confused as to whether this was meant to be erotic or just "hot." I decided it was just a good story, executed well with some hot sex scenes.
I really, really disliked the portrayal of the Southern assistant in the latter part of the book. It was stereotypical and negative and dismissive. I know it was meant to be humorous, but it just totally missed the humor mark for me. Yeah, I am Southern and I work in the real world with Southern assistants and lawyers and doctors and other professionals. Portraying this assistant as sweet but really unsophisticated (shall we say hick) and clueless, yeah, kind of hit some hot buttons. But that is a me thing.
All in all, a great little read.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
kathleen schedler
Great romance. The author makes this one believable through the details. I have read them out of order, and think I should have read them 1-2-3 etc. They are stand alone books, but the sequence of characters would have been better for me.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
sanna
I really like this book, I read with pleasure.
Adult fairy tale version of Beauty and the Beast, oops, a Billionaire.
I like Gretchen, she is smart, funny, outspoken. Hunter... Hunter is sweet. You would like to hug him and never let off the shoulders.
I would recommend this book to any romantic soul.
Adult fairy tale version of Beauty and the Beast, oops, a Billionaire.
I like Gretchen, she is smart, funny, outspoken. Hunter... Hunter is sweet. You would like to hug him and never let off the shoulders.
I would recommend this book to any romantic soul.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
halle
Visit my blog for more reviews: http://anialeth.blogspot.ca/
Twitter: anialeth
RESUME
The Billionaire Boys Club is a secret society of six men who have vowed success--at any cost. Not all of them are old money, but all of them are incredibly wealthy. They're just not always as successful when it comes to love...
Real-estate tycoon Hunter Buchanan has a dark past that's left him scarred and living as a recluse on his family's palatial estate. Hunter is ready to give up on love--until he spots an enigmatic red-haired beauty and comes up with an elaborate scheme to meet her.
Gretchen Petty is in need of a paycheck--and a change. So when a job opportunity in an upstate New York mansion pops up she accepts. And while she can overlook the oddities of her new job, she can't ignore her new boss's delectable body--or his barely leashed temper.
Hunter's afraid his plan might be unraveling before it's truly begun, but Gretchen is about to show him that life can be full of surprises...
MY REVIEW
I will start by saying that this book made sense. It is a text book romance complete with the seduction, the plot, the development (sexy sex included), the fall out and, of course, the HEA. The emotional entanglement is believable, if a little syrupy at times. The sex scenes were hot (but without a capital H) but without being too graphic. All in all, a satisfying read but not what I would call extraordinary.
SPOILER ALERT! Even if liked it, I must say I'm not crazy about my hero being the virgin of the bunch. I get that he has scars but still...What I must say however is that although he was the inexperienced one in the relationship, the author still managed to portray him as an alpha male, the taking charge type that I loved, and kept a careful balance between his insecurities and his stoic demeanour.
Gretchen is outspoken, romantic and, most importantly, real. She didn't come across as overly emotional, which I really liked, and she is definitely the type of woman one can relate to. The blow out is predictable but understandable and not too far-fetched, which is mostly where I get disappointed normally in the stories I read.
All in all, I liked the story and will read the next one. However, I had no problem putting it down to be continued the next day. It was, just like the blow out, predictable but entertaining. A good read.
MY CLASSIFICATION
Type: Contemporary romance
Keyword: Classic
Intimacy: Good, without being over the top
MY RATING
3 stars for a classic but enjoyable contemporary romance
Twitter: anialeth
RESUME
The Billionaire Boys Club is a secret society of six men who have vowed success--at any cost. Not all of them are old money, but all of them are incredibly wealthy. They're just not always as successful when it comes to love...
Real-estate tycoon Hunter Buchanan has a dark past that's left him scarred and living as a recluse on his family's palatial estate. Hunter is ready to give up on love--until he spots an enigmatic red-haired beauty and comes up with an elaborate scheme to meet her.
Gretchen Petty is in need of a paycheck--and a change. So when a job opportunity in an upstate New York mansion pops up she accepts. And while she can overlook the oddities of her new job, she can't ignore her new boss's delectable body--or his barely leashed temper.
Hunter's afraid his plan might be unraveling before it's truly begun, but Gretchen is about to show him that life can be full of surprises...
MY REVIEW
I will start by saying that this book made sense. It is a text book romance complete with the seduction, the plot, the development (sexy sex included), the fall out and, of course, the HEA. The emotional entanglement is believable, if a little syrupy at times. The sex scenes were hot (but without a capital H) but without being too graphic. All in all, a satisfying read but not what I would call extraordinary.
SPOILER ALERT! Even if liked it, I must say I'm not crazy about my hero being the virgin of the bunch. I get that he has scars but still...What I must say however is that although he was the inexperienced one in the relationship, the author still managed to portray him as an alpha male, the taking charge type that I loved, and kept a careful balance between his insecurities and his stoic demeanour.
Gretchen is outspoken, romantic and, most importantly, real. She didn't come across as overly emotional, which I really liked, and she is definitely the type of woman one can relate to. The blow out is predictable but understandable and not too far-fetched, which is mostly where I get disappointed normally in the stories I read.
All in all, I liked the story and will read the next one. However, I had no problem putting it down to be continued the next day. It was, just like the blow out, predictable but entertaining. A good read.
MY CLASSIFICATION
Type: Contemporary romance
Keyword: Classic
Intimacy: Good, without being over the top
MY RATING
3 stars for a classic but enjoyable contemporary romance
Please RateBeauty and the Billionaire (Billionaire Boys Club series Book 2)
What I liked:
I can genuinely say that Hunter is my favorite Jessica Clare hero, ever. In fact he is probably one of my all time favorites heroes from any author and that's saying a lot! You all know how many books I read and how many authors I have had the pleasure to enjoy. Hunter is my favorite kind of hero, tortured. Because of an accident Hunter is left scarred for life. He is used to looks of horror and revulsion when people look at him. He has become reclusive and lonely. Though he spends time with his boys, he doesn't entertain. I loved that he became attracted and intrigued with Gretchen from afar and then went to great lengths to pursue her.
What's the point in being a billionaire if you can't use that money to bring a little happiness to your life? Hunter doesn't pull any punches. When he finds out that Gretchen is a ghost writer, he actually goes so far as to start a publishing company in order to offer her a job. A job that comes with certain conditions including staying on sight for the duration of the project. He becomes a part of Gretchen's life and never looks back. He went for it, despite the reactions he was used to, in spite of the fact that she didn't know him from Adam. I loved his confidence, his billionaire attitude, his big heart and his sexiness! What a hero!
Gretchen had to be a very strong character to match up to Hunter. She had to be intelligent, resourceful and strong. She was all those things and more. She looked past the outside and saw the man behind the scars. Clare was able to challenge the ideas of what makes a great relationship with these two characters and I think readers will really respond to that. The chemistry between Hunter and Gretchen was spot on. They sizzled! The love scenes were steamy, yes you will need a fan and a cold drink, but more importantly there were so many poignant moments and a heart felt love developing.
The fact that Gretchen was a writer, struck a cord with me as well. The whole book had a great theme. They were working together on a book that required her skills as a ghostwriter. Readers get a sense of the publishing world and how ghostwriting works and I liked that plot device. It gave Gretchen a reason to be with Hunter and it also satisfied that writing angle I love so much in books. Being a struggling author and freelancer myself might have a thing or two to do with that...LOL!
What I didn't like:
What can I say, I've read some really good books lately and this one is probably one of my favorites. You have to read it to understand!
Bottom Line:
This is just a great book. I liked the first one in the series, but I loved this one. The romance is sweet and sexy all at the same time. Jessica Clare fans will love this story and Hunter is one grade A hero! Sexy, tortured, a little brooding and a whole lot lonely. Gretchen is spicy, sassy and very accepting. A great combination and a great love story!